Han Zheng will visit Kenya, South Africa, and Seychelles from March 22 to 30, in what Beijing describes as a significant high-level diplomatic engagement aimed at consolidating China-Africa relations.
Announcing the visit, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said the trip will focus on strengthening bilateral ties and advancing cooperation across multiple sectors. “China hopes the visit will help better align development strategies, strengthen political mutual trust, and expand practical cooperation,” Lin said at a regular press briefing.
The visit comes at a pivotal time, coinciding with the start of China’s 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030), the 70th anniversary of China-Africa diplomatic relations, and the Year of People-to-People Exchanges.
Lin emphasized that China’s relations with the three countries have gained momentum in recent years, particularly following the 2024 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation. He noted that political trust has deepened and that cooperation in trade, infrastructure, and cultural exchange has produced “fruitful results.”
During the tour, Han is expected to engage in high-level discussions with leaders in each country on issues of mutual interest, including economic cooperation, investment, and regional coordination.
In South Africa, Han will co-chair the Ninth Session of the China–South Africa Bi-National Commission with Deputy President Paul Mashatile. This platform is seen as crucial for steering one of China’s most comprehensive partnerships on the continent.
The visits to Kenya and Seychelles are anticipated to further strengthen existing strategic partnerships, with discussions likely focusing on infrastructure development, trade facilitation, and people-to-people exchanges.
“Through the visit, China looks forward to forging greater synergy between the 15th Five-Year Plan and the development strategies of other countries,” Lin said, adding that Beijing aims to promote “an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era.”
